Human Concerns

Visiting Friends

The Homebound of our parish appreciate visits from the parish family. Contact Laurie Regan 815-626-5078 for more information and to volunteer.

Prayer Chain

When called on, a group of parishioners pray for a special intention. If you would like to join the prayer chain and pray for the needs of our parish or if you have a special situation or need and would like others to pray for you, please feel free to call the parish office or coordinator, Jean Wilkinson 815-625-5013. Prayer is a powerful tool, but even more powerful when done in numbers! “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.

Widows' Group

Parish widows are invited to attend the first Saturday 8:00 am Mass, followed by a social breakfast at a local restaurant. Call Eileen Linton 815-625-0210 for more information.

Respect Life

This group works in coordination with the Life & Family Evangelization Office of the Diocese of Rockford to achieve a universal respect for all life - the unborn, the less fortunate, the infirm and the elderly. Other issues include chastity, contraception/birth control, people with disabilities and capital punishment. This is accomplished through prayer, education on life issues, discipleship, outreach programs, and commemorating and celebrating life through special events and projects. Contact the parish office 815-625-4508 for more information.

Elizabeth Ministry

In the spirit of Saints Mary the Virgin, and her cousin, Elizabeth, this ministry responds to the needs of women and their families during childbearing years and beyond. Female ministers support families with expecting children, miscarriages, and stillbirths. An annual Memorial Mass for Heaven's Children takes place each Spring. Contact the parish office 815-625-4508 to learn more about this ministry.

Gianna's House Pregnancy Resource Center

Gianna's House is located on the northeast corner of our church campus. The mission: by providing spiritual, emotional and practical assistance, we will welcome and educate all individuals in making pro-life choices consisten with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Gianna's House provides material goods such as baby items in addition to spiritual and emotional support to families. Contact Colleen Petrosky 815-213-0290 to learn more or to volunteer.

PADS Shelter

Parishioners volunteer to serve at our community's local homeless shelter. Duties include preparing meals and working evening shifts. Contact the parish office for more information.

St. Vincent de Paul Society

This ministry offers food from our own community supplied food pantry, referrals to other neighborhood food banks, financial assistance, and other necessities a family might need. Located at 7 West 6th St. in Sterling. Call 815-625-0311 to volunteer.